Ribandar Chorao Ferry
Goa's first Ro-Ro ferries connect Ribandar to Chorao Island, offering a comfortable, scenic, and budget-friendly crossing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical views over the river
Ribandar Chorao Ferry
Best Time
Magical views over the river
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Goa's first Ro-Ro ferries connect Ribandar to Chorao Island, offering a comfortable, scenic, and budget-friendly crossing.
"The sunset ferry from Ribandar to Chorao? Absolutely magical! One of the most picturesque ways to reach the island."
🚗 Ro-Ro Ferry Convenience
Vehicles drive straight on/off the new Ro-Ro ferries for a smoother experience. :car:
💰 Budget-Friendly Crossing
Pedestrians & 2-wheelers are free! Cars are a nominal ₹10. Special service after 2 AM costs ₹100. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Modern Ro-Ro Ferry Ride
Ribandar to Chorao Island
Experience Goa's first Ro-Ro ferries with AC cabins and comfortable seating. A smooth, convenient way to cross the Mandovi River.
Sunset Ferry Views
Ribandar to Chorao Island
Catch breathtaking sunset vistas over the Mandovi River during this picturesque and budget-friendly ferry crossing.
Gateway to Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Chorao Island
The ferry is the primary access point to this vital estuarine mangrove habitat, a haven for birdwatchers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the New Ro-Ro Ferry Experience
Timing Your Chorao Island Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Ro-Ro Ferry Convenience
Vehicles drive straight on/off the new Ro-Ro ferries for a smoother experience. :car:
💰 Budget-Friendly Crossing
Pedestrians & 2-wheelers are free! Cars are a nominal ₹10. Special service after 2 AM costs ₹100. :moneybag:
⏳ Factor in Wait Times
Ferries wait to fill up; unloading can also take time due to parking. :clock:
🌅 Sunset Ferry Magic
The sunset ferry offers stunning, picturesque views of the Mandovi River. :sunriseovermountains:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Ro-Ro Ferry Convenience
Vehicles drive straight on/off the new Ro-Ro ferries for a smoother experience. :car:
💰 Budget-Friendly Crossing
Pedestrians & 2-wheelers are free! Cars are a nominal ₹10. Special service after 2 AM costs ₹100. :moneybag:
⏳ Factor in Wait Times
Ferries wait to fill up; unloading can also take time due to parking. :clock:
🌅 Sunset Ferry Magic
The sunset ferry offers stunning, picturesque views of the Mandovi River. :sunriseovermountains:
🐦 Bird Sanctuary Access
The ferry is your ticket to the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on Chorao Island. :bird:
☕ Nearby Food Options
Try Aapas Bar & Restaurant near the Ribandar ferry for tasty home-cooked Goan food. :forkandknife:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The new Ro-Ro ferries on the Ribandar-Chorao route are a significant upgrade, offering comfort and convenience with AC cabins and easy vehicle access. While the crossing is quick and budget-friendly, some users have noted concerns about breakdowns and occasional inefficiencies in vehicle disembarkation. The ferry is a picturesque and essential link to Chorao Island and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.
"The newly introduced Ro-Ro Ferries on the Chorao- Ribander route. The Gangotri (and Dwarka) are a big step forward in terms of comfort and convenience. Earlier, the traditional ferries had a single entry and exit, which meant some drivers struggled to manoeuvre their vehicles while getting off (though it was fun and challenging 🤩With the Ro-Ro system, vehicles can drive straight in and straight out — a real gift for those who found the earlier method difficult.
(I wish they had some Goan name as it will be running in Goa but maybe political influence of outsider plays a big role with some hidden benefit in naming it like that)
One of the best features is the air-conditioned passenger cabin with comfortable seating and large windows for a great view of the water. It makes the short crossing far more pleasant, especially in the heat or during the monsoon. The increased vehicle and passenger capacity is another plus — definitely a good initiative that makes commuting easier.
As someone who experienced the service in its early days, I hope the quality is maintained over time. Unfortunately, there have already been reports of breakdowns, which is worrying. It’s a great idea, but it would have been even better if the government had invested in a high-quality, reliable make rather than commission.
The crossing itself takes barely 5 minutes, but waiting for the ferry to fill can add to the total time. On the other side, unloading can also be slow since both rows of vehicles need to clear, and many two-wheeler riders park inefficiently, reducing space and delaying disembarkation.
This is a welcome change and a much-needed upgrade costing 40 Rs for car and some 15 for bike and free for walking. With better maintenance and some attention to efficiency, it could be an example of how public transport in Goa can modernise without losing its charm."
Chinmay Bramhanand Naik
"Sunset ferry from Ribandar to Chorao? Absolutely magical! ✨ This has to be one of the most picturesque (and budget-friendly!) ways to reach the island. Pedestrians and two-wheelers ride for free, and even four-wheelers only pay a tiny ₹10. The service is super efficient with multiple ferries running from 6:30 AM all the way until 2 AM. Need to travel later? They even have a special service for ₹100. Trust me, catching the sunset from this ferry is an experience in itself – the views are simply breathtaking. And of course, being just a stone's throw from the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary makes this journey even more worthwhile. Highly recommend! 👍
Instagram handle : @saviathebakecook"
Savia Maria Colaco
"A picturesque way to travel from Ribandar to the island of Chorao. It's free of cost for pedestrians and 2 wheelers, while 4 wheelers are charged a nominal price of Rs 10. Service starts at 6:30 AM and goes on till 2 AM. Post that a special service costing Rs 100 is available. The turnaround is quick during the day as 2-3 ferries are deployed at a time."
Tanushree Chandavarker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Chorao Island from Ribandar is by taking the ferry. Goa's new Ro-Ro ferries offer a comfortable and efficient crossing across the Mandovi River. The ferry wharf is about a 15-minute drive from Panaji. 
The ferry service operates from approximately 6:30 AM until 2:00 AM. After 2:00 AM, a special service is available for a higher fare of ₹100.
The actual ferry crossing from Ribandar to Chorao Island is very quick, taking only about 5 minutes. However, you should factor in waiting time for the ferry to fill up.
While vehicles can drive onto the Ro-Ro ferries, parking arrangements on the ramp and during disembarkation can sometimes be inefficient, leading to delays.
Yes, the new Ro-Ro ferries are designed to carry cars and two-wheelers. Cars are charged a nominal fee of ₹10, and bikes also have a small charge. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The ferry is free for pedestrians and two-wheelers. Cars are charged a nominal ₹10. A special service after 2 AM costs ₹100. +1
No advance booking is typically required for the Ribandar-Chorao ferry. You pay the fare upon boarding or as directed by the ferry staff.
The regular ferry service runs from around 6:30 AM to 2:00 AM. A special late-night service is available after 2:00 AM.
The ferry crossing to Chorao Island is free for pedestrians. There are no separate entry fees for the island itself, though attractions like the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary may have their own admission charges.
Each of the new Ro-Ro vessels, 'Dwarka' and 'Gangotri', can carry approximately 15-16 cars, 30-40 two-wheelers, and around 100 passengers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Chorao Island is primarily known for the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers. You can also explore ancient temples like the Devaki Krishna temple and enjoy the island's peaceful atmosphere.
Once you disembark the ferry on Chorao Island, you can arrange for boatmen to take you on canoes through the sanctuary's marshy canals. There are also boat services available.
The new Ro-Ro ferries offer a more comfortable experience with air-conditioned passenger cabins, comfortable seating, and large windows providing great views of the Mandovi River.
Some users have reported breakdowns with the new ferries, raising concerns about reliability. Inefficient parking by some two-wheeler riders can also cause delays during disembarkation.
The best time to visit the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is generally during the cooler months, from October to March, when migratory birds are present. Early mornings are ideal for birdwatching.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Aapas Bar & Restaurant is located near the Ribandar ferry and offers tasty home-cooked Goan food, including fish thalis and Chinese options, with peaceful riverside vibes.
While Chorao Island is primarily known for its natural beauty, you can find local eateries. For a more extensive culinary experience, dining options are more prevalent in Panaji or Ribandar.
Aapas Bar & Restaurant near the Ribandar ferry is noted for its peaceful river-side vibes, making it a pleasant spot for a meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The sunset ferry ride offers stunning photographic opportunities with picturesque views of the Mandovi River and the Goan landscape. The new Ro-Ro ferries themselves can also make for interesting shots.
Chorao Island is ideal for nature photography, especially at the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. Capture the diverse birdlife, mangrove ecosystems, and the serene beauty of the island.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying drones, especially near protected areas like the bird sanctuary.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Once on Chorao Island, a boat ride through the mangroves to spot birds at the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary can be an engaging educational experience for children. Pack snacks and water, as facilities on the island might be limited. The short crossing time makes it manageable for younger attention spans.💰 Budget Travelers
🌿 Nature Lovers & Birdwatchers
Early mornings are best for birdwatching, so plan your ferry trip accordingly to maximize your time at the sanctuary. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Evolution of the Ribandar-Chorao Ferry
+1These new ferries boast air-conditioned passenger cabins with comfortable seating and large windows, providing a pleasant journey across the Mandovi River, especially during Goa's warm climate or monsoon season. With a capacity for 15-16 cars, 30-40 two-wheelers, and around 100 passengers, they significantly enhance the commuting capacity for this vital route. This modernization is seen as a positive step for public transport in Goa, aiming to improve efficiency and passenger experience.
Despite the advancements, there have been early reports of breakdowns, raising concerns about the reliability and quality of the new vessels. Inefficient parking by some two-wheeler riders has also been noted as a factor causing delays during disembarkation. The ferry service operates for extended hours, from early morning until late at night, with a special service available for those traveling after 2 AM.
Exploring Chorao Island: Beyond the Ferry
+1Beyond the sanctuary, Chorao Island holds historical and cultural significance. It is home to ancient temples, such as the Devaki Krishna temple, which carries beautiful local legends. Exploring the island offers a glimpse into a more serene and traditional Goan life, away from the bustling beaches. The ferry ride itself, especially during sunset, provides a picturesque introduction to the island's charm.
For those looking for local flavors, there are small eateries and restaurants. Aapas Bar & Restaurant, located near the Ribandar ferry, is a recommended spot for authentic home-cooked Goan cuisine, offering a peaceful riverside dining experience.
The island provides a tranquil escape, perfect for a day trip focused on nature, history, and local culture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit